Walter Ersing, 85, NISOA Hall of Famer, peacefully passed away at home in Upper Arlington, OH, February 7, 2018. “Walt” is survived by his wife of 65-years, Maryalyce.

Walter “Doc” Ersing (OH)

There were three threads that defined Walter’s life: family, faith, and friends; education and sports; and a commitment to bettering the lives of people with disabilities.

“Doc” attended Springfield College, MA, earning a BS in Physical Education and letter in soccer. He then won a MA and PhD from The Ohio State University, where he spent a 32-year career as Professor of Adaptive Physical Education and Men’s Soccer Coach (1958-68).

From 1964-1974, Walt served on the US Olympic Committee responsible for selecting US soccer athletes for World Olympic and Pan-American Games (receiving its Award of Commendation); from 1966-1967, as Vice-President of the National Soccer Coaches Association of America; from 1964-1970 as President of the Ohio Collegiate Soccer Coaching Association; and from 1980-1988 as President of the Ohio Collegiate Soccer Officials Association (receiving its Honor Award).

His college-soccer officiating career spanned 54 years and high-school career 44, recognized by his induction into the NISOA National Soccer Hall of Fame in 1995 and Ohio High-School Athletic Association Officiating Hall of Fame in 2013.

In 1990, he founded the Excellence in Sportsmanship program for Greater Central-Ohio male and female high-school soccer players. Under his 20-year leadership, over $50,000 in scholarships was awarded to over 65 student-athletes for demonstrating sportsmanship on the field. He was also committed to the development of accessible sport opportunities through long time service to Special Olympics and Wheelchair Games in Ohio, nationally, and internationally.